Welcome to the Guelph Seed Library!

Location: We are located in the Guelph Tool Library, 131 Ontario St. Guelph. Please see the Guelph Tool Library for hours of operation. http://guelphtoollibrary.org/

What is a Seed Library? A seed library is a collection of seeds where members can “borrow” seeds. This means they take a package/or a number of seeds, grow them and save a similar quantity or more to give back to the seed library for the next year.

We understand that not all crops are successful so if we don’t get the same crop back that’s ok! We do ask that you donate some seeds that you have purchased or saved in return for the seeds you borrowed.

How to become a member: It’s free! You can e-mail seedlibrary@transitionguelph.org to become a member or stop by the Guelph Tool Library. We ask for your name, a phone number and e-mail address.

Donating seeds: We accept all non-gmo and non-treated seeds. If we receive hybrid seeds (these will not produce seeds that are the same as the parent), we will use those for workshops and seed swaps. The same goes for seeds saved where the saver is unsure about whether cross pollination occurred. These may still be put in the library with a “plant at your own surprise” tag. You could end up with a really cool crop:)

Saving seeds: We hope to run a few information sessions every year so that new members have some basic training in seed saving. The most important thing to remember is to dry them well before putting in a plastic bag or jar. Beans, peas, kale, arugula, cilantro, dill, and parsley are some easy seeds to save. Let them go to flower, let the seeds form and dry then cut the stalks and put in large paper or plastic bags to shake the seeds out. You’ll need to dry them for a couple of weeks before putting them in a jar or sealed plastic bag. Remember to label them with the crop and date.

Please be aware that saving seeds from melons and squash are tricky if you are growing more than one variety (or your neighbour is also growing a different variety). Zucchini can cross with some winter squash too! You can look up cross pollination and how to avoid it on the internet or come to one of our information sessions to learn more!

Start Something New!

Interested in starting a project with Transition Guelph? We love new ideas and can often help connect you to other passionate people who can help make your idea a reality. Email us at info@transitionguelph.org and let us know what you've got in mind!

Upcoming Events

From the Blog

Greetings All: After three years of running the Urban Sugaring Project, I am taking a year off to reorganize and refine the program. We have had great success in growing the Urban Sugaring Project with participation in both Guelph and Kitchener. The year off will […]

Getting involved is easy! Sign up for the newsletter to stay up to date on everything that is happening at TG. Come out to an event and meet new friends. Volunteer your time and start creating! Interested in learning more? You can always reach out to us at info@transitionguelph.org.